A Cleaner Burning Fuel for a Low Carbon Future: Air Products Leads the Field in Hydrogen Technology
As part of its drive towards a lower-carbon future in South Africa, Air Products South Africa is the proud supplier of hydrogen for the fuel cells to be launched and demonstrated at the milestone climate change COP 17 event, highlighting the benefits of hydrogen as a cleaner and sustainable alternative energy source. The company is at the forefront of research and development into hydrogen as the fuel of the future globally.
“Air Products is leading the way in developing innovative hydrogen technologies, which can reduce dependence on other heavy fossil-burning fuels and drive economic growth,” says Seelan Gounden, General Manager Supply Chain at Air Products.
While hydrogen fuel cell technology points to a cleaner future, hydrogen use is already playing a key role in a number of industry sectors.
“Air Products is the largest producer of hydrogen to oil refineries globally which use the gas to produce cleaner burning fuels. Hydrogen enables refiners to increase the amount of fuel that can be produced from every barrel of crude oil while assisting to remove pollutants from crude oil” says Gounden.
Hydrogen has applications in many other industries such as chemical, electronics, and foods, where it is used on a daily basis. Its dynamic properties are proven to improve quality output, optimise performance and reduce costs.
Air Products, which already operates an extensive hydrogen pipeline network around the world and in South Africa is investing substantially in the development of hydrogen as a commercial energy source, notably in fuel cell technology.
“Hydrogen is the cleanest burning and most efficient fuel,” explains Gounden. “It can be used to produce electricity in a fuel cell for the cleanest option, or in an internal combustion engine where emissions are significantly reduced compared to other fuels.”
“Hydrogen is a great carrier of energy and can be produced from many renewable resources. It is carbon-free, non-hazardous and produces no greenhouse gases when used as a fuel.”
Because hydrogen is a light, clean-burning, abundant chemical, it is the first choice for fuel cells.
“Through the process of electrolysis, hydrogen can produce electricity and electricity can produce hydrogen, creating an energy loop that is ongoing and renewable. We are proud to partner with key stakeholders and industry leaders in helping to develop and commercialise fuel cell technology.”
“Our unparalleled expertise in the safe generation and supply of hydrogen makes us a crucial partner in advancing a new era of renewable energy in South Africa and ultimately, in helping to mitigate the negative effects of climate change” says Gounden.
Published on December 5, 2011 in Air Products News |